Mull Head Nature Reserve & Deerness Distillery
Mull Head Nature Reserve & Deerness Distillery
Your coach departs Kirkwall and travels across the eastern mainland of Orkney toward the Deerness Peninsula, an exposed landscape framed by the North Sea. As the road approaches the coast, views open toward the uninhabited island of Copinsay, designated as a Special Protection Area for breeding seabirds and known for its seal colony. Upon arrival at Mull Head Nature Reserve, you visit the small visitor centre where interpretation panels introduce the wildlife, geology, and history of this 160-hectare heathland and grassland reserve shaped by coastal weather and seasonal bird activity.
From the visitor centre, walk a short distance across open ground to reach The Gloup, a dramatic collapsed sea cave now separated from the sea by a natural land bridge measuring roughly eighty yards in width. The surrounding cliffs and heathland provide opportunities to observe seabirds, coastal plant life, and the rugged geology that defines this exposed headland. The reserve’s open terrain allows clear views across the coastline while your guide highlights the natural features of this protected landscape before you return to the coach to continue across farmland toward your next destination.
A short drive brings you to Deerness Distillery, a family-run operation established by Stuart and Adelle beside their home and recognized as Orkney’s first new distillery in more than 130 years. Inside the visitor centre’s Copinsay Room, learn about the handcrafted production of the distillery’s spirits before participating in a guided tasting that may include Sea Glass Gin, Scuttled Gin, Vára Pink Gin, Orcadian Moon Coffee Liqueur, Into the Wild vodka, and blended whisky. After selecting a full-sized drink of your choice, enjoy time for questions and browsing the distillery shop before returning by coach to the yacht.
Notes: Wheelchair users must be accompanied by a companion who can provide assistance throughout the tour. The Gloup viewing area is located in an open coastal environment with no shelter from wind. Warm, waterproof clothing and good walking shoes are advised. The reserve is known for seabirds and coastal wildlife, although sightings depend on seasonal conditions and natural activity levels. Bird activity is typically highest during the breeding season in late spring and summer. Guests under 18 may visit the distillery but cannot participate in the tasting. Wheelchair users must be accompanied by a companion who can provide assistance throughout the tour.
A minimum number of participants is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. Please book on the Seadream.com website, or onboard, early to avoid disappointment. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on board.
Port: Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland
Duration: 4 hours
Current Price: 299 USD
Voyages where this land adventure may be found: